Backpacking Tarps

Backpacking is often like camping, only the trip is longer and more rigorous. A camping trip could last only a few days, but backpacking excursions – such as going the length of the Appalachian Trail – may last several weeks – or months. In either case, a backpacker is recommended to bring enough clothing and food for the trip, in addition to pans for cooking and a first aid kit.

But what do you do when rain hits? Campers, as well as backpackers, are advised to bring a few tarps along. These backpacking tarps are medium-duty and should be large enough to cover the camping area – a length of at least 25 feet is recommended for this – and your gear. One to cover the area as large as the floor of your tent should also be brought along. If you're going backpacking with a team, you each can take turns carrying one of the tarps along your journey.

Backpacking tarps for a campsite aren't designed solely as shelter, however. Instead, they serve as protection against rain. A large tarp, at least 25 feet long, should cover the main portion of your campsite, including the tent and fire areas, and should be angled from the top down to create a runoff. If rain hits, the tarp will keep the area dry, allow you to build a fire to cook your food, and prevent the tent from becoming soaked. As most tents aren't fully waterproof, a tarp should be placed directly under the floor of the tent to keep the area dry.

Although one to two tarps are needed to keep the main portion of your campsite dry, what about your gear? Backpackers often carry a large amount and this won't always fit under a large tarp. To protect your gear in case of rain, throw another large tarp over it to keep your belongings dry.

A tent can also be constructed from a tarp. If your tent is ever damaged on your trip, one of your larger backpacking tarps can be transformed into a tent. While several methods for creating a tarp tent exist, the tarp should be strung on a rope, attached to two trees, and secured to the ground.